a piece of heaven is
just south of rio, nestled in a secluded fishing village, ponta dos ganchos resort is a luxurious, sumptuous getaway fit for a goddess. in this spectacularly lush hideaway, absolutely no detail is overlooked. from the moment you wake up, all five senses are engaged. go seamlessly from the refreshing outdoor shower to the indulgent 7-course breakfast. and in true all-inclusive fashion, the impeccable staff tends to every detail is tended to. the rooms are sparklingly pristine with housekeeping coming through thrice daily. and the food-oh the food!-well, it's just beyond belief. stunningly fresh catches of the day come from the fishing village each morning and are flawlessly prepared and served in luxurious abundance. and of course, who could forget the legendary massages! just to think about them is to drift away. conducted oceanside, the sounds of the surf and the savvy strokes will send you a million miles away. this is the place to recharge and revive in a gorgeous setting.

after you're fully relaxed, reenergized and ready to absorb all the sights, sounds, tastes and experiences of one of the best cities in the world, head to rio. with so much going on, we took it upon ourselves to share with you our insider's guide of can't-miss rio:

rest
make fasano hotel your home base. the in-house restaurant fasano al mare makes the best breakfast with amazing fresh juices (the melancia and agua de coco are to die for) and wonderfully fresh fruit, as well as homemade pastries, cheese and ham. eat in the dining room or enjoy at the guests-only pool bar. pasta and seafood are top-notch for dinner, but feel free to get out and barhop at the city's many casual restaurants and bars where you can wash down brazilian bar snacks with ice-cold beer & caipirinhas.

fasano hotel
80 avenida viera souto
tel: 55 21 3202 4200

insider tip: book rooms on the higher floors facing the ocean

refresh
for superb italian, head to gero. pricey, sophisticated and lively...the scene only gets better as the evening wears on. show up at 8:30pm to secure your table and watch the place fill up. most of the restaurants in rio only take reservations for the early evening and then offer a walk-in second seating for later dinner.

oasis in sao conrado is the best churrascaria in town, maybe in the whole world. the meat is spectacularly prepared, and there are lots of choices. out-of-the-way but a tourist destination nevertheless, this place mixes locals and those who want to eat like the locals do. stop by on your way to the fashion mall in sao conrado, a 5-minute taxi ride away from the restaurant and get swimsuits at lenny's and salinas as well as cute locally designed duds from oshklen.

revel
for a real look at local culture and nightlife, venture 20 minutes out by cab to the lapa neighborhood, where small streets and faded colonial buildings have a deliciously seedy, vibrant, downtown vibe. dance with artists, professionals and working class alike to the sounds of live samba. well-known sambistas often make appearances at carioca da gema (55-21-2221-0043), where the seasoned crowd appreciates the intimacy of this 300 person-max venue. meanwhile, the rio scenarium (55-21-3852-5516) is a former antique clearinghouse comprised of three stories: audiences lean over the rails on the top two floors to see the bands. esoteric antique furniture, errant lamps and knickknacks give the vibe of grandma's house gone berzerk. rio's young folk flock to former porn theater teatro odisséia (55-21-2224-6367) for live bands and djs spinning on three floors.

recharge
there are juice places on nearly every corner, but the best is ipanema's polis sucos. the abacaxi c/hortela (pineapple w/mint is just so refreshing. perfect after a long night out. you're gonna need it!

an unbelievable resort in new jersey with an incredible wine cellar and a totally fabulous spa. reminiscent of a classic adirondack lodge, with strong wooden beams, natural stonework and an earthy color scheme, the lodge meshes perfectly with its serene surroundings.

the biosphere pool complex features a lavish heated lagoon-like indoor pool with waterslides, a hot tub grotto and a cave-like steam room and sauna. the ridiculously
glamorous reflections spa is the ultimate place to recharge and renew with thai yoga massage and wine-based antioxidant facial treatments.

with luxe suites featuring tempur-pedic style mattresses and in-room jacuzzis, it goes to show that nj is just far enough away to get you in vacation mode.

grand cascade lodge
three wild turkey way
hardyston, nj 07419
973.823.6500

get an in-the-know itinerary
jamaica is just the place. and as much as lying on a beach towel with an umbrella'd drink sounds pretty good right about now, there's so much more to see, do and experience while you're there. leave it to the pros at island routes  luxury adventure tours to set up a customized, fabulous travel experience based on what you want out of your trip. founded by travel industry vets dominique peterkin and 28-year-old sandals resorts international ceo adam stewart, this truly modern travel concept was created with discerning globetrotters like us in mind.

want a little history, authenticity and adventure with your r&r? here's just a sample of what you can expect on your journey:

• delicious food that the locals eat (how does homemade rum punch and jerk chicken made in a backyard pit sound?)

• a bamboo raft ride through the jamaican forest.

• an exhilarating bobsled rollercoaster ride.

• a dune buggy safari.

• a gallop through the forest and onto the beach on a gorgeous horse.

• a skylift ride over the trees of the rainforest at sundown.

Sleep
where to sleep in montreal
that's really just the beginning. with over 80 routes to choose from, it's all about what you want to do. and with that sandals connection, you know you're getting the absolute best of what the island has to offer. this is not some fusty beach trip stuck straight outta the '70s but a vacation you're sure to look back on fondly for years (and plenty of rainy windy days) to come

Sleep
where to sleep in montreal
right across from louis vuitton, this fab hotel is right in the middle of the action. with cozy double-down quilts, unpretentious yet refined service, in-suite fireplaces and bath goodies from lather, you might have to force yourself to get out and hit the town.

loews hôtel vogue
1425 de la montagne
montreal, québec h3g 1z3
514-285-5555

Eat
Where to Eat in Montreal
and in case you didn't get the memo, montréal is a serious foodie city. what better time to get initiated? 50 of the city's top restaurants are hosting top chefs, wine-producers and connoisseurs of all stripes for what promise to be some over-the-top culinary experiences.

le petit déjeune
two legendary montréal breakfast spots where crepes and eggs are taken to new heights:

creperie chez suzette
3 rue saint-paul est
514-874-1984

déjeuner
a couple of places to treat yourself to an indulgent midday meal:

milos restaurant
5357, avenue du parc
514-272-3522

ferreira cafe
1446, rue peel
514-848-0988

a few casual lunch spots:
m : brgr
2025 drummond
514-906-2747

reubens
1116 rue ste-catherine w
514-866-1029

dîner
a few blissfully high-end dinner spots  for memorable meals you'll surely be bragging about:

européa restaurant
1227, rue de la montagne
514-398-9229

la queue de cheval bar and steak house
1221 rene levesque o
514-390-0090

and for low-key dinner:
alexandre - french bistro
1454 peel street/(near ste-catherine)
514-288 5105

weinstein & gavino's - italian
1434 crescent street
514-288-2231

Bring on the Festival!

DANCE
Where to Dance in Montreal

and yes, we might be biased, but we're totally loving the latin-based caliente! series-dedicated to hot 'n' spicy rhythms-this year with a distinct portuguese accent. brazil's virginia rodrigues shares a historic double bill with the orquesta buena vista social club, also from portugal, best fado performer of 2007, singer ana moura, maria de medeiros; tony gouveia, performances from the likes of jorge martinez, papagroove, federico aubele, the cuban martinez show, roberto lópez and a major brazilian blowout starring paulo ramos, bïa and many others. métropolis feels the heat from calexico and the great lake swimmers, reggae from the aggrolites, and a major latin jazz evening from trumpeter arturo sandoval and cuban pianist hilario duran.

montreal high lights festival
february 18-28, 2010

.

1.) you’re too beautiful to be true. with your casual chic airy beach vibe, luxe details and spectacular natural beauty, just to look at you is to be inspired.

2.) you treat us like royalty. everyday is like a fantasy when we’re together: from your beach butler who sprays us with evian to the ritz carlton-pedigreed pool bartenders to the nespresso coffee and truffles. you cater to our every whim and we love you for that.

3.) you have great taste. you go above and beyond what it means to be “all inclusive,” by treating us to meals on par with any new york 5-star. picky as we are, your on-site restaurants cocina de autor, piaf and frida manage to take our breath away

4.) you send us flowers. you didn’t have to! you put a smile on our face when you sent orchids to our room during our birthday stay. it’s the little things you do that make us love you so!

5.) you complete us. from beginning to end, you impress us with all the things you have to offer—above and beyond our wildest dreams. if only we could be together all the time, what bliss life would be. sigh.









and that’s just the beginning. we didn’t even get to the part where you melt our hearts (and our muscles) with your mayan spa treatments—we’ll keep that one just between us, wink wink. well, we can’t wait to see you again and until then, we’ll be dreaming of our beachside romance with great fondness.

love,
casa naranja

SLEEP
wHERE TO SLEEP IN TURKS AND CAICOS

it doesn't get more luxe than the gansevoort. a true haven of of couture hospitality-from crisp frette sheets to the magical beach fairies who replace your towels and refresh your cocktail as you lounge-no detail is overlooked.

SUP
WHERE TO EAT IN TURKS AND CAICOS

bagatelle bistrot the gansevoort's in-house resto will bring fabulous salads, mahi mahi tacos and porterhouse steaks up to your room, poolside or right to your table in their romantic dining room.

caicos cafe experience true carribean cuisine at this authentic favorite, where the jerk chicken and grilled lobster are absolutely can't-miss.
Grace Bay, Providenciales Island
Turks & Caicos
Tel: 649 946 5278

coyaba dine in style in this enchanted tropical garden as you discover creative new-carribean flavors that make the most of the islands' resources: unbelievably fresh fruit and fish plus sultry spices. a memorable meal is guaranteed.
Caribbean Paradise Inn,
Grace Bay, Providenciales,
Turks & Caicos Islands
Tel: 649-946-5186

SIP 
wHERE TO DRINK IN TURKS AND CAICOS

infinity bar at grace bay club in case you weren't sure if you were on vacation, having a perfectly mixed cocktail under one of the shaded umbrellas or beneath twinkling stars with waves lapping at your feet will officially put you in that place.

DANCE
WHERE TO DANCE IN TURKS AND CAICOS

nikki beach club one of our fave spots to hit in any city from marbella to panama, nbc is a surefire good time. and although their T&C loc is temporarily closed, you can transport yourself there now with some sweet tunes

SHHH...
WHERE TO WANDER TO IN TURKS AND CAICOS

taylor beach don't let the secret out. this secluded, sugar white sandy beach is a stretch of true paradise. a beautiful crescent-shaped cove with crystal-clear, calm waters offers the day at the beach you've been dreaming of.

DECEMBER: POLO IN BARBADOS
Polo in Barbados dates back to as early as 1884, with the season kicking off in December.

WHERE TO STAY
Colony Club Hotel, a part of Elegant Hotels Group and a
former colonial club situated in St. James near the Barbados Polo Club. This timeless retreat kept its sophisticated charm which extends to all 96 tastefully appointed guestrooms and suites. Four lagoon style swimming pools meander through seven acres of tropical, palm-filled gardens. Photo Credit: Elegant Hotels Group

JANUARY: SKIING IN COURCHEVEL
Swish through the French Alps in an exclusive winter ski hideaway.

WHERE TO STAY
The five-star Hotel de Charme Les Airelles, nestled in the
heart of the Jardin Alpin in the French Alps, is completing a three-year 35 million Euro renovation this year. Designed in the spirit of the grand chalets past, this old world style hotel is one of the most famed ski destinations in the world and is ideally situated at the foothills of the mountain with effortless access to the pistes via Gloriette and the Relais des Skieurs. Photo Credit: Hotel de Charm Les Airelles

FEBRUARY: ROMANCE IN JAMAICA
Winter sizzles in the sensuality of Jamaica’s natural aphrodisiacs.

WHERE TO STAY
The Caves is Island Outpost’s boutique Negril hotel with 11
handcrafted cottages overlooking dramatic seaside cliffs. With a promise of romance, serenity and privacy, its two acres hide many secrets. Grottos within the cliffs are designed for a sensual couples massage with the Aveda Mini-Spa, for dining, lit with candles and strewn with flowers, and houses the new Rum & Cigar Bar. Photo Credit: Island Outpost

MARCH: ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN IRELAND
Erin Go Bragh!  Reclaim your Irish heritage (or adopt it for a St. Patty’s Day) with a warm Guinness.

WHERE TO STAY
Elegant Ireland will plan your luxury vacation and events, with more than 25 years leading Irish Tourism.  From castles, villas and manor houses to hotels, plus Ireland’s top spas, the company provides services to individuals, groups and corporate clients, plus themed tours for art, architecture, gardens, literature, archeology and antiques. Photo Credit: Elegant Ireland

APRIL: CARNIVAL IN ST. MAARTEN
The streets of St. Maarten's Dutch capitol Philipsburg come alive during Carnival, starting mid-April and lasting 17 days!

WHERE TO STAY
Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino is literally STEPS from the fun of Carnival, located on a one-mile stretch of white-sand beach in Philipsburg.  Indulge in Front Street’s superb duty-free shopping, or laze the day away in the sun at Great Bay’s infinity pool with pool bar. Each Monday night is a poolside barbeque with island delights and performers. Photo Credit: Sonesta Great Bay Beach Resort & Casino

STAY
shack up in miami

want to be close to the action, but not the noise? check yourself into the hyatt regency coral gables. with their doting staff and fluffy pillows, you’ll sleep like a baby and wake up refreshed and ready to do it all over again.

chic minimalism is at its finest at the townhouse hotel. come for the super-fresh seafood at the bond restaurant and stay for the beauty-and-brains crowd at the rooftop bar. trendy is an understatement.

eAT
chow down in style

for unique floridian-european fusion cuisine in an elegant setting, head to two sisters restaurant at the hyatt regency coral gables. for café-style seating and a huge selection of brunchy treats, stop by sacha's café before hitting the pool.

don't miss abokado’s inspired menu of pan-latin sushi. don’t leave without sampling the famous ceviche. as popular with the locals as with culinarily curious tourists, versailles restaurant is an authentic cuban joint and a total must-visit by cn standards. watch out chipotle, lime fresh mexican grill is a super-fresh joint that's as nice to your wallet as it is to your tastebuds. ola features innovative new takes on the classics—ham croquettes with parmesan ice cream, anyone? not cheap, but totally worth the experience. how do we rate the regent hotel jazz brunch? the food: outstanding, the ambiance sublime and did we mention unlimited champagne? sounds like $65 well spent.

PLAY
have fun all day

see how the ridiculously and fabulously rich other-half lives. if you go on just one sightseeing excursion, let designer gianni versace's former home casa casuarina be it. pay the $50 admission fee and get inside this sprawling, gorgeous mansion and experience intoxicating excess. then, walk along espanola way and be transported to old san juan or the zona colonial in santo domingo.

get golfing at biltmore's total performance golf experience. serious swingers pay $800 for their three-hour assessment and clinic. check out the amazing exhibits at the miami science museum and the even more enthralling musical acts at the adrienne arsht center for the performing arts. for some free fun, check out the freedom tower, a beautiful structure with some serious cuban-american history behind it

PARTY
dance the night away

with off-the-hook music and a killer sound system, the crowd at alcazaba nightclub knows what's up on wednesday nights. play dominoes and treat yourself to a freshly rolled cigar out on the patio.

santo lounge is where all the beautiful people are going these days, so what are you waiting for?

CHILL
get your spa on

nirvana meet the guerlain spa, guerlain spa meet nirvana. where do we begin to tell the story of how great this place is? let's see...breathtaking view? check. outstanding service? yep. ridiculous decadence? that too. melt into a gorgeously pampered puddle after their signature 90-minute guerlain impériale massage.

STAY
where to sleep in barcelona

hotel claris this luxe but affordable hotel near gaudi's la pedrera has contemporary design inside an old skin. the pool on the roof and the terrace bar offer a break from the barcelona heat along with great views, and the concierge knows which restaurants are new in town. it even has a jewel of a museum showcasing ancient egyptian and roman artwork. the claris is right near barcelona's fanciest shopping street, the passeig de gracia, with its fantasy architecture, stores and cafes.
hotel jazz not fancy, but fabulous. this modernist building houses a totally modern design space with all the mod-cons, including a small rooftop pool. it's just a short walk (conveniently along a street crammed with shoe stores) to barcelona's magical old town, the bari gotic.

eAT
where to eat tapas in barcelona
tapas, those divine little morsels which deserve to be a meal, are a way of life in barcelona. how else can you survive til dinner at midnight?

cerveceria catalana (c/mallorca, 236. tel: 34 93 216 03 68) extraordinary tapas in a casual setting. locals and tourists devour seafood morsels along with beer (hence the name) or sangria.
cal pep come early and get in line. you'll wait for your turn at the ancient counter for a sublime meal. but it's worth the wait. let them decide what you should eat.
pinotxo (inside the boqueria market) right off the Ramblas is the boqueria market, europe's largest. the fruit is stacked like artwork, the fish is every squiggly species imaginable, but go for the food. scattered throughout the market are countertop bars serving the freshest food -- but we love pinotxo right inside the main entrance. grab a seat at any open spot. and no matter what time it is, have a cold glass of the local sparkling wine -- cava.
alkimia: catalan food is on the cutting edge -- combining molecular gastronomy, traditional food and a modern sensibility. jordi vila is one of the new young chefs changing barcelona food.
cuines santa caterina restaurant (tel: 34 93 268 99 18) inside the wildly modern shell, the santa caterina market near the old cathedral offers as much cooked food as fresh. it has beautiful design, a hallmark of barcelona, to go along with excellent food. grab a table before the local business types beat you to it.
el xampanyet (c/montcada 22 (tel: 34 93 319 7003) cava by the bottle (spanish champagne), ham and olives are only the start at this cool ancient bar near the picasso museum jammed with young and oldsters alike.

DESIGN
where to see design in barcelona

la pedrera, casa mila (obra social): mindblowing architect antoni gaudi created this building over a hundred years ago. locals call it "the quarry" because there isn't a straight line in it. it was built just as the car was first invented and gaudi was so smart, he designed this apartment house so folks could drive up to their front door. genius. go at sunset for drinks on the undulating roof, guarded by centurion chimneys.
vincon yes it's a modern design store, but the modernista building that houses it is as interesting as the stuff for sale. favorite item: Vincent Van Gogh action doll.

DANCE
where to dance in barcelona

barcelona simply does not sleep. most clubs don't open til midnight, and don't start rocking til later (even on weeknights). 3am is primetime and many stay open til 7am. so you can watch the sunrise and grab hot chocolate and churros on the way home.

razzamatazz: razz is 5 clubs in one, with a different feel and different music in each room. go late.
maremagnum: this shopping center down on the mediterranean sea is filled with shops by day, several clubs by night. hit whichever one fits your mood.

SHOP
Where to shop in Barcelona

xocoa has several locations around town for exotic chocolates along with hot chocolate in the cafes. did you know columbus first brought chocolate to europe through barcelona? el born is a trendy neighborhood in the old town near the sea. spanish gems like camper shoes, custo barcelona for the coolest dresses and shirts decorated in bright design, can be found among born's unusual boutiques and bars. and all over town is the store approaching total world domination zara,which has its flagship store here replete with chic cheap knockoffs and the occasional brill houseware find.